US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Containers Fall

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Containers Fall

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight performance in late January showed divergence: carload volume increased by 3.3% year-over-year, primarily driven by increased shipments of nonmetallic minerals and coal. Container volume decreased by 6.7% year-over-year, reflecting macroeconomic uncertainty and supply chain adjustments. Total North American rail freight volume experienced a slight decrease. Looking ahead, economic recovery, supply chain resilience, sustainable development, and technological innovation will be key factors influencing rail freight trends.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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HMM Debuts First Methanolpowered Global Shipping Route

HMM Debuts First Methanolpowered Global Shipping Route

South Korean HMM plans to pilot the world's first green shipping route by 2027, connecting Busan and Ulsan with Seattle and Tacoma. This route will utilize methanol-fueled container ships and car carriers, aiming for zero-carbon emissions during maritime transport. The South Korean government is actively promoting clean fuel supply and has established a consortium with shipping companies and fuel suppliers to support green shipping. This initiative contributes to the global shipping industry's green transformation.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Jebel Ali Port Fuels Middle East Trade and Global Supply Chains

Jebel Ali Port Fuels Middle East Trade and Global Supply Chains

Jebel Ali Port, a deep-water port in Dubai, UAE, ranks as the world's ninth-largest container port. It is the largest man-made harbor and the busiest port in the Middle East. With its strategic location, comprehensive service system, and world-class infrastructure, Jebel Ali Port has become a trade engine for the Middle East and a vital hub in the global supply chain. It plays a crucial role in the economy of the UAE and the world.

02/11/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises Carloads Fall Amid Economic Shifts

US Rail Freight Intermodal Rises Carloads Fall Amid Economic Shifts

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail traffic for the week ending March 16th presented a mixed picture. While automotive carloads experienced a slight year-over-year decrease, shipments of grain, chemicals, and petroleum saw growth. Intermodal container and trailer volumes showed significant year-over-year increases. The recent bridge collapse may impact logistics on the East Coast. Railroad companies need to actively transform and upgrade, expanding into emerging businesses such as intermodal transportation.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Traffic Slows

US Rail Freight Carloads Rise Intermodal Traffic Slows

According to the Association of American Railroads, total U.S. rail traffic decreased year-over-year for the week ending August 19th. Carload volume saw a slight decline, but shipments of commodities like automobiles, coal, and petroleum increased. Intermodal container and trailer traffic experienced a significant drop. Cumulative data for 2023 shows a slight increase in carload volume, but intermodal continues to face pressure. The rail freight market is facing both challenges and opportunities, requiring transformation and upgrades.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Port of Virginia Boosts Capacity with 217M Crane Upgrade

Port of Virginia Boosts Capacity with 217M Crane Upgrade

The Port of Virginia is investing $217 million in automated stacking cranes to enhance throughput at Virginia International Gateway and Norfolk International Terminals, addressing the challenges posed by the Panama Canal expansion. This move signifies a trend towards port automation upgrades, promising increased efficiency, reduced costs, and a positive impact on the supply chain. The investment aims to modernize operations and solidify the Port of Virginia's position as a leading container port on the East Coast.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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Ocean Alliance to Transform Global Shipping Industry

Ocean Alliance to Transform Global Shipping Industry

The 'Ocean Alliance,' comprised of four major shipping companies, plans to deploy 350 container ships, offering 40 East-West routes connecting 100 ports, aiming to reshape global trade patterns. Approved by the U.S., and awaiting approval from China and the EU, its establishment will enhance shipping efficiency, strengthen market competitiveness, and promote trade development. However, the alliance also faces challenges such as member coordination, market competition, and regulatory risks. Its impact on the global shipping industry will be significant.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Gothenburg Launches Direct Asia Shipping Route Boosting Nordic Trade

Gothenburg Launches Direct Asia Shipping Route Boosting Nordic Trade

The Port of Gothenburg welcomes a new direct service from CMA CGM, establishing a parallel structure of three direct routes to Asia and reinforcing its position as the leading Nordic shipping hub. This new route utilizes LNG-powered vessels, enhancing the port's green shipping capabilities. Increased Asian trade volumes have driven the Port of Gothenburg's container throughput to new heights. Moving forward, the port will continue to empower trade and economic development between the Nordic region and Asia.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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Xiamens Transport Expansion Boosts Foreign Trade Growth

Xiamens Transport Expansion Boosts Foreign Trade Growth

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, Xiamen has built an efficient transportation network through the rapid development of railways, ports, and aviation, strongly promoting foreign trade growth. The China-Europe Railway Express operates regularly, and the port's container throughput is expected to rank among the world's top. The total foreign trade volume remains in the top ten nationwide. In the future, Xiamen will continue to strengthen the construction of smart terminals to further enhance its foreign trade competitiveness.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Guide to LCL Shipping for US Exporters

Guide to LCL Shipping for US Exporters

This article provides an in-depth analysis of LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping processes, focusing on US dedicated line operations. It covers key stages including inquiry and booking, warehousing and customs declaration, loading and ocean freight, customs clearance and delivery. The article details important considerations for US dedicated lines, key factors in service provider selection, and solutions to common problems. It aims to help businesses efficiently and economically conduct LCL shipping to the United States.

01/28/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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